igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Igneous Rock (Granite)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper (white, gray, black, pink); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarsegrained visibility); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Salt and pepper (white, gray, black, pink)
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper (white, gray, black, pink); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarsegrained visibility); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is a plutonic rock that cools over thousands to millions of years, allowing large mineral grains to grow. Found in continental crust and mountain ranges.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock found on Earth's continents. The iconic peaks of Yosemite National Park and the faces on Mount Rushmore are carved from granite.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking texture of quartz (translucent gray), feldspar (white/pink), and mica or hornblende (black). It is found worldwide in mountainous regions.
